‘Cute’ ducks a distraction for readers

A family of ducklings has set up home in Woodley Library after being found having a splash in a swimming pool.

Staff spotted two male ducks and a female duck cooling off in a pool near the library and then received an extra surprise when a gardener alerted them to 10 duckling eggs in the library garden.

Denise Culham, senior stock officer at Woodley Library in Headley Road, said: “Last Wednesday afternoon they suddenly all appeared. There were 10 of them following mum around. I have to admit it’s very distracting when we are trying to work as they are so cute.

“At first I thought the mum looked a little bit distressed as she was wandering around with her little ducklings looking for a way out so we contacted the vets for advice.”

Library staff were advised to provide the ducklings with corn food and water and they have been keeping an eye on their new feathered friends along with library visitors who have welcomed the latest additions.

Ms Culham said: “We are getting a lot of interest from customers and we are encouraging people to have a look. We have got a little fountain in the garden and they have attempted to get in there as well.”